Wales
The George
Aberbargoed, Mid Glamorgan
In the 18 months since trade newcomers Paul Bugler and Nicola Owen were appointed managers of the George, they have established it as the place to be for sports fans.
What was formerly an eyesore in Aberbargoed is now a smart venue that attracts custom from miles around.
Paul says: "There was a need for a quality sports venue in the village." Now it has one, thanks to owner Consortium Group investing in a major refurbishment of the George.
Pulling the darts players
Villagers were quick to appreciate the transformation and decamped from other pubs to support Paul and Nicola. From having no darts or pool team, the George now has three pool teams and nine darts teams - two ladies', six men's and a Super League team, which travels far and wide for matches. The pub has its own minibus to transport teams to away matches. Every night except Saturday is darts night, with teams either visiting the George or the home team playing away.
The pub's darts reputation was enhanced by arranging exhibition matches with darts superstars John Lowe and Wayne Mardle.
Visual improvements
Paul and Nicola are also committed to giving their customers the best viewing platform for football, rugby, cricket and horse racing events. Over the past year, they have twice upgraded the projection system, as well as installing an improved sound system.
All the events are advertised via banners outside the pub and posters inside. Drinks promotions are also used to attract custom and spectators for the big events, such as the football World Cup and Six Nations rugby, with a range of free food on offer as a
special inducement.
Six Nations success
Free sweepstakes also feature, with the person guessing the time of the first goal winning a jug of beer, for example. Paul says these initiatives helped to increase sales by 122% during the last Six Nations.
He is quick to add that the George appeals in equal measure to women. "There are just as many women as men, especially during the rugby internationals," he says.
